Senior Safety Zones Committee Hearing

Date:

Tuesday, June 18, 2013 - 1:00pm

Action Alert:

Tuesday, June 18th at 1PM -

Take action, and help ensure that senior citizens in high-risk areas are safe from the dangers of fast moving vehicles!

The Senior Safety Zones Bill will give municipalities the opportunity to establish reduced speed Senior Safety Zones [modeled after School Zones and Work Zones], which will provide a layer of protection for a population that relies disproportionately on walking as a means of transportation.

For more information please feel free to contact WalkBoston at 617-367-9255.

Not sure what to say? Here are a few suggestions:

Dear Sen. Jehlen and Rep. O’Day:

I am writing today to encourage The Joint Committee on Elder Affairs to report, House Bill 550: An Act Authorizing the Establishment of Senior Citizen Safety Zones, with favorable recommendation.

Help keep senior citizens in Massachusetts safe by giving municipalities the option to establish reduced speed Senior Safety Zones [modeled after School Zones and Work Zones], and therefore provide a layer of protection for a population that relies disproportionately on walking as a means of transportation.

Pedestrians hit at 20 mph have a 95% survival rate. Pedestrians hit at 40 mph have a 15% survival rate. The health impact to pedestrians struck by cars is exponentially higher as vehicle speed increases. Slowing traffic in areas where vulnerable populations, like seniors, are in greater concentration can have significant health and safety benefits.

I encourage you to support House Bill 550, and give it a favorable recommendation.